Simple ways to reconnect with nature — even if you’re busy, nervous, or just getting started.

If you’ve been wanting to spend more time outside but haven’t known where to start, you’re not alone. A lot of people think being “outdoorsy” means climbing mountains, buying expensive gear, or spending entire weekends in the woods. But the real truth? Being outdoorsy just means you enjoy being outside — in whatever way feels good to you.

Whether you’re craving more peace, wanting to slow down, or simply trying to start a healthier routine, getting outside is one of the easiest ways to feel better. And it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Start With Small Moments

You don’t have to jump into a full hike right away.
Begin with everyday habits that get you outside without feeling overwhelming:

• morning or evening walks

• stretching on your porch

• drinking your coffee in the sun

• reading or journaling in a park

• walking during your lunch break

• exploring your neighborhood with a podcast

Tiny moments count — and they slowly build confidence.

Look for Nature Close to Home

People often picture nature as mountains and waterfalls, but it’s everywhere. Try exploring a local park, a greenway, a riverside walkway, or even a quiet patch of trees near your home. Botanical gardens, lakeside paths, or community nature preserves are perfect places to ease in without feeling too far from familiar surroundings. You don’t need to “escape” the city to enjoy nature — sometimes it’s right around the corner.

Choose Beginner-Friendly Trails

When you’re ready to try a hike, start with simple trails. Look for paths that are shorter, flat, and easy to follow.
Something under 3 miles with a clear route is perfect for beginners.

And if you’re in the Southeast, I have plenty of beginner trail recommendations — or you can join one of my group hikes if you want to try a trail with a supportive community.

Take Your Time (There’s No Perfect Pace)

One of the best parts about being outside is that you set the pace. There’s no rush. Stop to catch your breath, admire a view, take a photo, or simply let your body calm down. Hiking isn’t a race. Nature slows you down in the best way, and giving yourself permission to move slowly makes the whole experience more peaceful.

Wear Whatever Makes You Comfortable

You don’t need a full “outdoor girl” aesthetic to enjoy nature. Leggings, athletic shorts, a simple top, and sneakers are more than enough for beginning. Bring water, a light jacket if needed, and maybe a small backpack — nothing fancy. As you start getting outside more often, you can upgrade your gear if you want, but it’s definitely not required.

Bring a Friend (or Come Solo)

If nature feels new or intimidating, bring someone you trust.

But if you’re going solo, stick to:

• popular trails

• daytime outings

• marked paths

• simple routes

And remember, Shades of Nature always has space for you on our group hikes if you want an easy, welcoming way to meet new people.

Let Nature Become Part of Your Routine

The more you weave nature into your regular schedule, the easier it becomes. Maybe you take a short walk every Sunday morning, explore a new trail once a month, or watch the sunset a couple evenings a week. These little rituals add a lot of joy to your life and make the outdoors feel like something you naturally turn to, not something you have to “plan” for.

Unplug and Let Your Mind Breathe

If you can, try putting your phone on silent or airplane mode for part of your time outside. Even a few minutes without notifications helps you settle into the moment. You’ll hear the birds, notice the way the light hits the trees, and feel your mind start to slow down. It’s amazing how quickly nature pulls you back to yourself.

Explore New Ways to Be Outdoorsy

Being in nature doesn’t have to mean hiking. Try picnicking with a friend, sitting by a lake, checking out a botanical garden, going on a scenic drive, photographing something pretty you notice, taking a yoga class outside, or visiting a local waterfall. There are so many ways to connect with nature — you just have to find what feels good to you.

Find a Community That Supports You

Getting outside becomes so much easier when you have people to do it with. That’s why I created Shades of Nature — to give people of color a space where we feel welcomed, represented, and supported while exploring the outdoors. If you’ve been wanting to start but didn’t know how, joining one of our hikes or beginner-friendly trips is one of the best first steps you can take.

You don’t need to be an expert, a fast hiker, or someone with all the gear.
You just need to start — even if that “start” is a five-minute walk or sitting outside with your morning tea.

Nature is for everyone.
And once you begin making space for it, you’ll feel the difference — in your mood, your creativity, your stress levels, and your sense of peace.

If you want help getting started, you can:

• join a group hike

• explore our upcoming trips

• or join the Shades of Nature newsletter for tips, guides, and beginner-friendly activities

See you outside.